If "Somewhere Beyond Time" is considered Blind
Guardian's masterwork, then "Imaginations from the Other Side" would
mark the point where the band would settle on their sound. This comes with both
a plus and a minus depending on how you look at it. On one hand, from this
album forward, you know exactly what you’re going to get with Blind Guardian
which, in my eyes, is a good thing, as now, they would have a sound that was
truly their own. On the other hand, one might say their albums suffer from
formulaic copy and pasting and basically once you hear one album, you've heard
them all. Obviously, I disagree with that notion, as I like playing with loaded
dice in that, I know each roll will be favorable. You can hear this in the
titular song, as it showcases the operatic choruses that would become a staple
in Blind Guardian, while establishing powerful rhythm and catchy melodies.
Thomen Stauch's drums continue to dazzle listeners with both the ability to
pound at your skull, but also create an accompanying sound that flows with each
song on the album. "Bright Eyes" is another example of how the band
can shift sounds and moods, yet not lose hold of the overall atmosphere they
are creating as the album progresses. Kürsch’s vocal range goes from high to
low, and from soft to harsh all in one track. The sound itself has a more, I'm
not sure how to describe it other than poppy sound? Almost a blend of genres of
sorts. In any case, it's a wonderful song on a magnificent album. Get this.
Highlights: "Imaginations from the Other Side",
"Bright Eyes", "A Past and Future Secret"
Rating: 4
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